Police chief finalists narrowed to three
Over the next few weeks, Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter will review three applicants for the city’s next police chief, officials said.
The candidates include LCPD Deputy Chief Shawn Caldwell; Lt. Michel Pappillion, with the Harris County Constable Precinct 6 in Harris County, Texas; and Samuel Wyatt, director of investigations for Louisiana State University.
An advisory panel appointed by Hunter chose the three candidates after interviewing a panel of nine applicants.
Katie Harrington, city public information officer, said Hunter has asked for personnel records from the candidates’ current and former employers. Once he chooses a candidate, it will go before the City Council for final approval. The panel must reach a majority vote.
A new chief is expected to be chosen by December. Current Chief Don Dixon is retiring on Jan. 15 after nearly 20 years of service.
Newly appointed chiefs serve six-year terms and can be reappointed for additional terms.